Asian Garlic Noodles are simple and full of flavor! With just a few ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, and noodles, this dish comes together quickly and tastes amazing!
Cooking these noodles always reminds me of my favorite takeout, but now I can make it at home. Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen? Yum!
I usually serve these noodles with veggies or protein for a complete meal. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that makes weeknight dinners a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: I recommend using egg noodles for a rich taste and texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, thin wheat noodles or rice noodles work well, too. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here for that powerful flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but I suggest using more if you do this. It won’t have the same depth but will still give a nice flavor.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds a great umami flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce instead. For a gluten-free version, try using tamari as a substitute.
Oyster Sauce: This ingredient lends a nice sweetness. If you want to keep things vegetarian, you can use mushroom-based oyster sauce or simply skip it. A dash of extra soy sauce can balance it out.
Chili Flakes: For some heat, crushed red chili flakes are a great addition. If you prefer a milder dish, just leave this out, or use a pinch of black pepper instead for a little kick.
How Do I Avoid Burning Garlic When Cooking?
Getting that perfect golden garlic can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- Always cook garlic on medium heat. High heat can burn it quickly.
- Slice the garlic thinly so it cooks evenly. Thick chunks take longer and can burn before the rest cooks.
- Stir frequently. This keeps the garlic moving and prevents it from sticking to the pan.
- If you see it starting to turn brown too fast, reduce the heat immediately. Remember, once it’s burnt, you’ll need to start over!
With these tips, you’ll achieve that lovely golden color without the bitter taste of burnt garlic!
Asian Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles or thin wheat noodles
For the Sauce and Flavor:
- 4 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 8-10 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 2-3 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp crushed red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves or cilantro (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 5 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Noodles:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they’re al dente (not too soft!). After cooking, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set those aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Preparing the Garlic and Onions:
In a large pan or wok, heat the oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced garlic along with the white parts of the green onions. Stir frequently for about 1-2 minutes, keeping an eye on the garlic to ensure it doesn’t burn. You want it to be golden brown and fragrant!
3. Adding the Noodles:
Now it’s time to add your cooked noodles to the pan! Toss everything gently, making sure the noodles are well coated in the garlic oil. This is what makes them taste so good!
4. Mixing in the Sauces:
Next, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), sugar, and crushed red chili flakes (if you like a bit of spice). Toss everything together for about 2 minutes so the flavors mix nicely and the noodles heat through.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once everything is well combined, remove the pan from heat and mix in the green parts of the green onions for a fresh touch.
6. Serving Your Dish:
Transfer the noodles to serving plates, and if you like, you can garnish them with fresh basil leaves or cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch. Serve your delicious Asian Garlic Noodles right away while they’re warm!
This dish embodies rich garlic flavor complemented by savory sauces, and fresh garnishes make it look as great as it tastes. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles provide a wonderful texture, you can substitute them with any thin wheat noodles or even rice noodles if you prefer a gluten-free option. Just adjust cooking times according to the type of noodle you choose!
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
If you love heat, you can simply add more crushed red chili flakes or even drizzle some chili oil on top before serving! Adjust the spice level according to your taste, and remember, you can always start with a little less and add more as needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the noodles moist!
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition. You can also add protein such as cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!